Film-based Cell Culture Device and In Vitro Setup for Ultrasound Modulation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cell Biology
• Acoustics

Background:

• Conventional in vitro ultrasound systems (petri dishes, well plates) suffer from acoustic reflections and pressure accumulation, hindering reliable and reproducible results.
• Existing custom sonication setups are often complex to assemble and lack compatibility with diverse experimental configurations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an easy-to-use, 3D-printed device for in vitro ultrasound applications that overcomes limitations of conventional systems.
• To optimize ultrasound wave propagation, ensure contamination prevention, and enhance cell culture reliability for sonogenetics and ultrasound modulation studies.

Main Methods:

• A novel 3D-printed device was designed using parafilm, Mylar, and polystyrene films for top and bottom sealing.
• Pressure field mapping using a needle-hydrophone validated predictable ultrasound pressure distribution within the device.
• Primary rat astrocytes, microglial cells, and human embryonic kidney HEK293t cells were cultured on Mylar films; cell viability was assessed via trypan blue exclusion.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed device demonstrated effective ultrasound wave propagation with minimal interference from parafilm, Mylar, and polystyrene films.
• Cell culture on Mylar films showed high viability, confirming the feasibility of seeding various cell types.
• The device maintained sterility and prevented leakage, proving its efficacy for reliable cell culture experiments.

Conclusions:

• The novel 3D-printed device offers improved control over ultrasound parameters delivered to cells in vitro.
• Its adaptable design and ease of use enhance accuracy and reproducibility in ultrasound modulation and sonogenetics research.
• This system provides a reliable platform for advanced cell culture studies utilizing ultrasound technology.